Chichen Itza, Mexico

 Location: Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico
 Age: Flourished between 600–1200 AD (Classic to Post-Classic Maya period)

 What is Chichen Itza?
Chichen Itza is one of the most famous and best-preserved ancient Mayan cities. It was a major political, religious, and economic center of the Mayan civilization. The name Chichen Itza means “at the mouth of the well of the Itza” in the Mayan language, referring to the large cenotes (natural sinkholes) that provided water to the city.

The most iconic structure is El Castillo (the Temple of Kukulcán) — a massive step pyramid dedicated to the feathered serpent god Kukulcán.

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 Why is it famous?

• The pyramid is an astronomical marvel: during the spring and autumn equinoxes, sunlight creates the illusion of a serpent slithering down the steps.

• The site has other impressive structures, including the Great Ball Court, the Temple of the Warriors, and the Sacred Cenote.

• It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

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 Interesting Facts:
✅ The Great Ball Court at Chichen Itza is the largest in Mesoamerica — over 160 meters long!
✅ Mayan priests and astronomers used the pyramid for precise calendar calculations.
✅ Some rituals included human sacrifices at the Sacred Cenote to please the gods.

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Today, Chichen Itza remains one of Mexico’s most visited archaeological sites and a symbol of the genius of ancient Mayan science, engineering, and culture.